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10 Steps to Planning a Successful Violent Toy Turn In / New Ways to Play Day

  1. Determine why you are doing this (philosophy), and what you want to accomplish (goals). Begin planning six months in advance.

  2. Reach out for the the broadest possible community participation and support. Contact area churches, peace groups, community organizations, government officials, concerned merchants, schools, etc.

  3. Design and produce necessary materials such as press releases briefly describing your program, a peacemaker certificate; brochures suitable as handouts, worship bulletin inserts, posters, etc. (Note - children's art is particularly effective for PR).

  4. Involve merchants who will provide Peacemaker Rewards to children who surrender a toy. Also inquire whether he/she might be a Violent Toy Turn-In site in the community.

  5. Prepare press kits containing a copy of press release, Peacemaker Certificate brochures and posters with event information.

  6. Conduct your media campaign! Contact local newspapers, radio and television stations. Request public service announcements and coverage of key events. Provide copies of your press kit. Always make face-to-face personal contacts. Avoid faxing if possible.

  7. Provide standardized materials to all business/church/merchant/school partners participating as Toy Turn-in sites. Also provide information materials for distribution to area schools/PTAs, day care centers, scout groups, etc.

  8. Determine whether or not you will run a New Ways to Play event along with the Toy Turn-In. if so, you'll need to determine location, types of play stations to be available, staffing, publicity, etc.

  9. Determine what you'll do with the violent toys you'll receive. For example toy sculpture (talk with a local artist or school an department),or public burial (please be environmentally thoughtful!)

  10. Need more information? Call the Columbia United Christian Church at (410) 730-1770. Or write to us at cucc@erols.com, or 5885 Robert Oliver Place, Columbia, Maryland 21045.


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